This life’s dim windows of the soul
Distorts the heavens from pole to pole
And leads you to believe a lie
When you see with, not through, the eye.
— William Blake:
Photo by Akira Hojo on Unsplash
Every pastor has those people in their congregation who monopolize their time. Every week they come up sharing about their woes, asking for advice, or just wanting to talk—about anything.
One Sunday, as Terri and I were driving home, I told my wife it was a great day at church. I didn’t run into either of my current “talkers.” She just looked at me and smiled. I can’t remember exactly what she said, but I knew the voice. It may never happen to you, but the Holy Spirit often talks to me, and it sounds just like my wife.
I spent time praying that week, asking God to help me see those two individuals through his eyes. He reminded me that both were as precious to him as I was. He also pointed out (gently) that I needed to focus on who they were—beloved children of God—rather than on how much time they took.
I began to notice things I hadn’t before. I saw hurt, fear, and an unfulfilled but strong desire to be acknowledged and heard. This time instead of looking for an escape, I looked them ion in the eye and said, “Tell me about your week.” Then I listened. I didn’t try to fix anything. I just listened.
I want to tell you that because of my new approach to seeing them through God’s eyes that they were soon no longer monopolizing my time. I’d be lying if I did. They still came up to me, but this wasn’t about changing them. It was about changing me.
As you enter this new year, ask God to help you see your community and its people in a new way. It’s easy to claim we love our community, but communities are just a collection of people. If we see them the way that God sees them, perhaps we will begin to love them as God loves them.
Photo by Gracious Adebayo on Unsplash
So how do we start? Ever tried prayer walking? Some parts of the country don’t have great weather for walking, but it will clear up at some point. (Until then, maybe prayer driving or mall walking/praying might have to do). When people go back outside again, walk around your neighborhood and pray as you do.
While you walk and pray, look around. Don’t just notice someone is present. Look at them. Smile and say hello. If they ask what you are up to, tell them you are walking the neighborhood because you want to become more familiar with it. If they ask, tell them you are with a church that wants to serve the neighborhood, and the best way to serve is to get to know the people.
Over time, some will come out and start chatting. As they do, focus the chats on getting to know them. Be interested in them. Ask about their job, their family, the things they like about the neighborhood. Try seeing things around you with your eyes, but not through them. Instead, try seeing through the love and compassion that Christ has given you. Sometimes our eyes lead us astray, but God’s love never will.